New Leadership at Nestlé Waters UK: Stefano Bolognese Takes the Helm

Apr 9, 2025 at 9:39 AM
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Nestlé has announced a key leadership change within its UK operations, appointing Stefano Bolognese as the new managing director for Nestlé Waters and Premium Beverages in the UK. This move comes as Grant McKenzie transitions to head the Northern Europe division for the same category. Bolognese’s responsibilities will encompass overseeing some of Nestlé's most iconic brands while contributing to the strategic direction of the company in the region. With extensive experience across various sectors of Nestlé, including international business development, Bolognese is set to bring innovation and growth to the UK market.

Bolognese’s career with Nestlé spans over two decades, marked by significant contributions to sales, marketing, and brand expansion. His previous role leading Sanpellegrino’s global initiatives highlights his expertise in enhancing brand portfolios and driving international success. As he assumes his new position, Bolognese emphasizes his commitment to nurturing existing brands and fostering an environment where teams can thrive, particularly through innovative projects like water capture initiatives in Pembrokeshire.

Stefano Bolognese: A New Era of Leadership

With Stefano Bolognese stepping into the role of managing director, Nestlé Waters and Premium Beverages UK embarks on a fresh chapter under experienced guidance. Bolognese brings a wealth of knowledge from his extensive tenure at Nestlé, focusing on expanding the reach and appeal of well-known brands such as Princes Gate, Buxton, and Nestlé Pure Life. His primary objective is to leverage these brands' potential while ensuring their continued growth and relevance in the competitive beverage market.

Having spent more than twenty years at Nestlé, Bolognese has consistently demonstrated his ability to innovate and drive results. Prior to this appointment, he successfully managed the international business unit for Sanpellegrino, playing a pivotal role in the global expansion of Acqua Panna, S. Pellegrino, and Sanpellegrino Beverages. This background positions him perfectly to lead the UK team, bringing a unique blend of strategic insight and hands-on experience. His immediate focus will be on elevating the profile of local brands like Buxton and Princes Gate, ensuring they resonate with both current and prospective consumers. Furthermore, Bolognese aims to foster a culture of collaboration and creativity among his team, encouraging them to push boundaries and explore new opportunities.

Innovative Strategies and Team Empowerment

Beyond managing established brands, Stefano Bolognese envisions creating an empowering work environment that allows employees to flourish. He recognizes the importance of leveraging the skills and talents of his team to achieve greater heights. By doing so, he hopes to inspire them to take ownership of their roles and contribute meaningfully to the company’s mission. One notable example of this vision in action is the recent water capture project in Pembrokeshire, which showcases Nestlé's commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Bolognese’s approach underscores the significance of aligning corporate goals with sustainable practices, ensuring long-term viability in an ever-evolving industry. The water capture initiative exemplifies how forward-thinking strategies can address environmental concerns while promoting business growth. Additionally, Bolognese plans to engage closely with his team, facilitating open communication and feedback loops to enhance decision-making processes. Such efforts aim not only to bolster operational efficiency but also to cultivate a sense of pride and purpose within the organization. Through these measures, Bolognese seeks to establish a legacy of excellence and sustainability, solidifying Nestlé’s position as a leader in the premium beverages sector. His leadership style promises to invigorate the company culture, encouraging employees to embrace challenges and strive for excellence in all aspects of their work.